UNBC Timberwolves

WBB: Twolves add grit, experience in PacWest veteran Julia Gallant

The University of Northern British Columbia’s Women’s basketball team has added significant experience and skill, officially announcing the commitment of Julia Gallant for the 2018-2019 season.

A veteran of two Pacific Western Athletic Association seasons at Quest University, Gallant is ready to step up to the Canada West level.

“I love the game, so I am really excited. This has been a dream of mine for years, so this will be a big jump.”

The five-foot-six point guard started 17 games for the Kermodes in the 2017-2018 campaign, averaging 8.3 points per game. A visit to UNBC this spring was confirmation that her style of play will make for a smooth transition to the Timberwolves.

“They really mesh well as a team. They play fast, which is exactly how I like to play. I thought I would be a good match, and I think I will amalgamate really well into this team.”

In February, Quest University announced the discontinuation of its varsity athletics programs. Gallant, who graduated from Mount Douglas Secondary in 2016, points to her time with the Kermodes as critical in her growth as a player.

“It helped me work on my fundamentals, and helped me to grow as a team player, and as a leader. But, this jump is going to help me speed up my game.”

Timberwolves coach Sergey Shchepotkin liked what he saw from the fiesty guard when she visited the Prince George campus.

“Julia brings a lot of really valuable experience to our team. She has proven at her time at Quest that she processes the game quickly, and plays with aggressiveness. I am thrilled to add an intelligent player like Julia to the roster.”

Along with her 8.3 points per game, Gallant averaged 3.4 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.2 steals per contest last season. She also paced the Kermodes in three-point shooting, and is ready to contribute in any way for the TWolves this season.

“I like to shoot the three, and when I get hot, it’s hard to stop me. I like to push the ball, play hard defense, talk a lot on the court, and I am a team player.”

With three years of eligibility remaining, Gallant is excited at the prospect of helping the TWolves to a third consecutive Canada West playoff appearance. The native of Victoria will pursue a Bachelor of Arts, and pursue new heights for the UNBC Timberwolves.

“I love the game because it brings a team together and you make a family. It’s fast and it’s fun. I want to help us get some buckets, and get some wins.”